Riverside bans masks, requires IDs for ICE and other law enforcement officers – Press Enterprise

In front of a cheering audience late Tuesday, Oct. 14, a split Riverside City Council approved creating identification standards for federal agents who are involved in immigration enforcement operations in the city.

The council voted 4-3 to back a proposal spearheaded by Councilmember Clarissa Cervantes, who is running for state Assembly. Cervantes, joined by Councilmembers Sean Mill, Philip Falcone and Steve Hemenway voted in support of the resolution that would require law enforcement personnel to clearly identify themselves when on duty. Councilmembers Steven Robillard, Chuck Conder and Jim Perry voted against the new standards.

“Sometimes when we can come together,” Cervantes said Tuesday, “and we can truly come to compromise, when the end goal is taking care of people and protecting our neighborhoods — we can find solutions.”

Over 60 speakers showed up to the council chambers Tuesday. All but three were in favor of new identification standards for law enforcement.

“If the agents were proud of what they’re doing, they wouldn’t be hiding behind masks,” Canyon Crest resident Betsy Rice said. “And if they’re ashamed of what they’re doing, they shouldn’t be doing what they’re doing.”

The resolution was a response to “increasing reports of ongoing immigration enforcement operations” within Riverside, according to report prepared by city staff in advance of Tuesday’s meeting.

With their vote Tuesday night, the council approved requiring officers to provide clear identification, with their name and badge number, and prohibiting them from concealing their identities with masks. The resolution also bars the city from sharing information about residents with federal agencies.

Under the new standards, the Riverside Police Department will monitor federal officers operating within the city, and the city will create data privacy protections, bolster efforts to educate citizens about their rights, and provide $50,000 to legal aid nonprofits.

The council may also set aside $50,000 in a legal justice fund in partnership with immigrants’ rights groups, civil rights and legal aid organizations. The council may consider a $50,000 match if an agreed upon partner organization can raise $50,000 on its own, for a total of $100,000, according to the report.